Rational Group is a truly entrepreneurial story. The company that started with just 2 people – Rajesh Agrawal and Paresh Davdra, 1 PC and 0 customers – 8 years on, in a global economic crisis of epic proportions – has over 70,000 customers in 60 different countries, 65 employees speaking 15 different languages and processed over $4bn in payments in 55 different currencies.

We also take a lot of pride in the fact that all this has been achieved organically – we never borrowed a penny, are still fully owned by the two founders. Rational Group has no debt and possesses an enviable track record of profitability and growth. All this has been achieved with sheer hard work, great courage, innovation, patience and of course, a stroke of luck. Rational Group is a firm believer in giving back to the community and regularly supports a number of charities, including Oxfam, the Princes Trust and the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women.

Rajesh Agrawal, Founder & Non-Executive Chairman

Rajesh was born and raised in Indore, in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. He was 22 years of age when he left Indore to live on only £60 a month in Mumbai, working for a small web-design company. He then moved to London in 2001, aged 24, with just £200 in his pocket. After gaining further work experience in IT, foreign exchange markets and international payments, in 2005 Rajesh co-founded RationalFX with £2,000 funded by his credit card and a laptop.

In July 2008, he was elected as a Life Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) on a personal invitation by the trustee board. In 2011 he was honoured by Asian Whos Who, for Asian Leadership as Young Entrepreneur. In the same year, Rajesh was presented Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in the UK Parliament by Baroness Boothroyd at the Public & Political Life Awards.

Rajesh is also named in the list of 42 under 42 Members Midlands and Young Guns List 2012. He was chosen “Director of the month” by the Institute of Directors’ (IoD) official publication in August 2012. Rajesh holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance & Marketing, and an MBA in IT & Marketing.

He is an enthusiastic supporter of charities and is a Patron of several charities including The Prince’s Trust and the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women.

Paresh Davdra,Founder & CEO

Paresh was born and raised in London. After completing his degree in Computer Science & Marketing from Middlesex University, he went on to gain experience in the foreign exchange and international payments industry. An expert on currency markets & risk management, in 2005, Paresh co-founded RationalFX.

Paresh regularly comments in the media including Reuters and Citywire on foreign exchange markets.

An entrepreneur at heart and a keen supporter of entrepreneurship, he is involved in various initiatives that help young people start businesses.